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Flying with Children

Airport Tips

Flying with Children

September 6, 2024
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5 Min Read

Flying with children might be at the bottom of your “Favorite Things To Do” list, but look at it this way: 5 hours on a plane is a lot better than 10 hours in a car. Many children absolutely love to fly and others are not so keen on the adventure. You have done all the planning that you possibly can, but you can’t plan for everything. Follow these tips when flying with your kids:

Talk Beforehand

If your family is not frequent flyers, sit down with your children and explain to them what this process will be like and what they can expect. Also, explain what is expected of them and reassure them that they will never be separated from you. Take this conversation very seriously so the children know to be on their best behavior.  

TSA Precheck

Consider investing in TSA PreCheck for either one or both parents/guardians. This will speed up the security process and help you avoid a bit of stress. Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI holders also get PreCheck benefits.

Getting To and From The Airport

You can often drop off the luggage and an adult at the terminal while the car is parked. Or you can get a ride to the airport with a friend or consider a taxi, Uber or Lyft. Planning ahead for ground transportation at your destination is key. Will you need car seats, a larger rental car, are shuttles available, etc. - riding the subway with luggage and a stroller isn’t much fun.  

X-Ray

Unless you have TSA PreCheck, all of your baby gear will need to be collapsed and put through the X-ray. This includes strollers and car seats as well as baby carriers, jackets, belts, backpacks, electronics, etc. Everyone’s shoes will need to be removed- that includes the adults. Consider having your kids wear shoes that are easy to remove, such as Velcro sneakers. Don’t pack any children’s toys that may resemble a weapon; they will be taken from you. Strollers and car seats can also be checked for free.

Follow The Rules

You know the drill: all liquids/gels in your carry-on must be no more than 3.4 ounces. If you are traveling with an infant or toddler, breastmilk, formula, juice, and medications will be permitted in reasonable quantities. Make sure you don’t bring any prohibited items. Keep your boarding passes and IDs ready. The TSA website has lots of details.

Have Fun

While traveling with your kids may seem stressful, following these tips will take some of that weight off your shoulders. You deserve to enjoy every moment of traveling, and that includes your flight!  

Albert J. Ellis Airport

Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) wants you to enjoy the journey and fly stress-free. Located near Jacksonville and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Richlands, NC, OAJ provides multiple flight options for travelers from Jacksonville, Morehead City, Hampstead and beyond. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines fly to and from Jacksonville’s airport bound for Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. By starting your journey at OAJ, you can get almost anywhere in the world from Aruba to Zurich with a simple connection at one of these world-class hubs.

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